Kids’ Music You’ll Actually Enjoy
Music for the whole family
Singing songs with your kids helps them develop essential skills, like hearing the smaller sounds that make up words and building vocabulary, both of which will help them learn to read later on. Of course, music also helps keep your kids entertained and happy, but preferably not at the expense of catching an earworm like “The Wheels on the Bus” or “Baby Shark.” Here are 8 albums of kids’ music that the whole family will enjoy.
Bouncy Blue by Mr. Eric and Mr. Michael
You may not realize that you already know Eric Litwin, but you’d probably recognize him as the author behind the brilliant original four books in the Pete the Cat series. Now he makes catchy kids’ tunes in all kinds of musical styles, from a funk version of “Head Shoulders Knees & Toes” to “This Little Piggie” done hip-hop style.
Here I Am! by Caspar Babypants
Formerly the lead singer of The Presidents of the United States of America, Chris Ballew now performs under the name Caspar Babypants in a genre known as “kindie rock,” providing both classic songs and original tracks in toe-tapping renditions.
Songs for Carmella: Lullabies and Sing-A-Longs by Christina Perri
Better known for her adult fare like the song from the Twilight Saga, “A Thousand Years,” Perri recently became a mother and released a lovely lullaby album including songs that will be familiar to most parents, such as “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” from Toy Story.
Family Photo Album by Recess Monkey
Three teachers form this Grammy-nominated band that plays high-energy music with hilarious lyrics that will especially appeal to elementary-aged kids.
Explorer of the World by Frances England
If you need some easy listening, look no further than Mom-turned-kindie star Frances England. Breezy vocals and strumming guitars will bring some sunshine to any day!
Lemonade by Justin Roberts
Through earnest vocals and everyday topics, three-time Grammy-nominated artist Justin Roberts speaks to the kid in all of us in songs like “Must Be This Tall” and “Valentine (I Don’t Wanna Be Yours).”
Appetite for Construction by The Pop Ups
Brooklyn-based duo The Pop Ups’ funky pop songs WILL make you want to dance. Not only that, but their lyrics encourage creativity through making, building, and crafting. I play this band’s music during storytimes and at home, too; my kids call it “party time music.”
Home by Tim Kubart
My absolute favorite kids’ artist is Tim Kubart. You may know him as the overly-enthusiastic Tambourine Guy from Postmodern Jukebox, but he’s also a Grammy-nominated children’s artist. Upbeat and catchy but truly heartfelt, his songs about everyday life will ring true for most listeners.
Conclusion
I hope your family tries out some of this kids’ music and maybe even finds a new favorite, for bath time, car rides or any time. Your child will develop important skills while also having fun!
Cara is the Youth Services Librarian at the Amelia Branch, where she dances to great music in storytimes, reads funny books at kids’ events and more.
